2016 Spartanburg Political Leadership Institute

The Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce is launching a new program, the Spartanburg Political Leadership Institute (SPLI), designed to educate current and potential elected officials about the election process and what it means to be a public servant.

The Spartanburg Political Leadership Institute will assist in an individual’s decision-making process, as this four-hour workshop prepares aspiring public leaders on what to expect and how to approach a campaign. For more information about the Spartanburg Political Leadership Institute, contact John Kimbrell at jkimbrell@spartanburgchamber.com.

---------------------------

4:00 pm: Welcome & Introductions –

Allen Smith, President & CEO, Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce

---------------------------

4:15 pm: Election Process & Offices –

Henry Laye, Department Head, Spartanburg County Office of Registrations & Elections

Overview of what you need to know before walking in to file the paperwork.  Gain a basic understanding ?of filing dates, deadlines, offices that you can seek, and information you need to have with you when you file.

---------------------------

5:00 pm: Defining a Viable Candidate – 

Dr. Allison Pingley, Associate Professor of Political Science Pre-Law Advisor, USC Upstate

Some candidates face an uphill battle from day one, while others are favorites with little effort.  Here is ?what you need to know before you consider filing.

---------------------------

5:45 pm: Media & Public Relations

Dr. Allison Pingley, Associate Professor of Political Science Pre-Law Advisor, USC Upstate

What kind of messaging and media knowledge do you need to think about before starting your campaign? Topics include paid vs. earned media, direct mail strategies, and leveraging social media.

---------------------------

6:30 pm:  Ethics… “Why it is important”

Doug Smith

What are ethics for elected officials and why are they important?  Here the “do’s and don’ts” of public office

---------------------------

6:45 pm: The Real Scoop on Public Service –

Doug Smith

Brenda Lee Pryce, former SC representative, House District 31

Unfiltered opinions of what public service is and the surprises (good and bad) encountered along the way.

---------------------------
    
7:30 pm: Business Issues –

Jason Zacher, Vice President of Business Advocacy, Upstate Chamber Coalition

What issue positions have been taken in recent years, what are some of the major concerns of the business community today, and how are they advocated for

---------------------------

8:00 pm: Closing Remarks & Next Steps –

John Kimbrell, Executive Vice President, Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce

Review of the Spartanburg Political Leadership Institute and an overview of the 2016 Upstate Political Leadership Institute.